Mount Agung

3,031m (9,944ft)

Climbing Agung will take anywhere from 7 to 12 hours depending on the trail. Most trekkers of good fitness levels will be able to tackle the climb. There are 3 different trails to choose from depending on the experience, fitness level and preference of the climber.

The most popular is the Besakih trail starting from Besakih Temple to the west of the summit. It takes 5-6 hours to complete and is about 23km long. The trek usually begins at 23:00 so that you can reach the top in time for sunrise. One can also start at 04:00 and come down from the summit before the night sets in.

The other two trails are the Duku Bujangga Sakti Trail, (which takes 10-12 hours to complete) and the Pura Pusar Trail, (which takes 3-4 hours). The Duku Bujangga Sakti Trail is the longest yet less physically demanding route. This trail is mainly recommended for less technically experienced climbers.

It starts from a 300m/984ft altitude and involves a necessary overnight camp at 1,700m/5,577ft. This route is rarely used and adequate information on it is lacking.

The Pura Pusar trail starts from the south of the summit and is only 8km/4.97 mi long, however, it is the most physically demanding trail.

The terrain of Mount Agung can be split into 2 distinct sections: The terrain of lower altitudes is mainly tropical forest, whereas the higher altitudes and summit have less vegetation and more coarse volcanic rock. The ascent and the descent are steep, especially towards the summit- hikers are sometimes forced to slide down parts of the descent.

Using the Besakih or Duku Bujangga Sakti trail options, the climb is demanding yet doable for amateur climbers with determination. During the last hour of the route, the terrain is notably rough, often forcing climbers to reach the summit on all fours. If you leave at 23:00 to get to the summit in time for sunrise, much of the hike will be done in the dark.

The Pura Pusar route is dangerous, strewn with slippery rocks. Solidified lava, sharp rocks and fog add to the risk. It firstly takes climbers through steep, dense rainforest. The rainforest gradually transitions into a desolate landscape of rocks and boulders. The final leg of the route is a steep slope that leads climbers to the top of the mountain.

At lower altitudes, the climate is tropical, and the temperature is generally around 20-25°C/ 68°F- 77°F. The weather becomes colder at higher altitudes, so packing a warm layer is advised. Wind speeds and gusts also become strong at higher altitudes. The weather in the morning is generally cooler and less humid than the rest of the day.

The best time of year to climb Mount Agung is during the dry season, (May to October). Although the weather during the dry months is generally pleasant, small showers can still be experienced from time to time due to the tropical climate.

It is not ideal to go during the rainy season (December-February) as there is often heavy rain in this period and slippery conditions make it dangerous. During January and February, heavy rains, floods, and landslides are common, which can also be triggered by seismic activity.

For this trail, it is particularly important to wear suitable hiking boots with an exceptionally good grip. A hiking pole could be immensely helpful, even for young people, on the descent, considering the toll of fatigue and the steep terrain.

There is a registration kiosk at the trailhead. There are rest-stop shelters, such as huts, pavilions, etc. along the trail. There are shelters for overnight rest at the summit base camp. Food and water can be found at the trailhead, and at the summit base camp. There may be potable water available along the trail if there are seasonal waterfalls with fresh water, but it is recommended to bring your own water just to be safe.

The hike can be done without a guide; however, guides are recommended because if you are injured or lose your way, there is no help nearby. Be cautious when finding guides. Ideally, they should have plenty of local climbing experience, knowledge, and first aid training.
Check with your guide if porter(s) are needed/provided, especially if you are planning to spend the night up on the mountain.

The nearest airport is the Bali Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar International Airport). Taxis or shared minibuses will take you just about anywhere on the island. The distance covered from the airport to the starting point of Mount Agung is around 23km/14 mi. The journey can take 1-3 hours to get to the southern reaches of Mount Agung, depending on the traffic (particularly getting through Denpasar). Getting to the northern side of the mountain could take 1-2 hours longer.

There are no reports of gender-related safety concerns, and no restrictions against hikers climbing alone, however climbing in groups (especially at night) is sensible and recommended. It is also important to note that climbing Mount Agung is not allowed during some religious ceremonies, so best to ask your tour provider beforehand.